"Field of Dreams" star Kevin Costner came back to Iowa on Sunday to stump for Democratic presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg.
Costner says Buttigieg can help heal the nation's divisions. Costner and Buttigieg spoke to about 12-hundred people at Indianola High School on Sunday. Costner was a Republican until 1992, when he became an independent.
"When Pete speaks of unity, it’s the kind of unity I’ve been waiting and hoping to hear about," said Costner. "I see Pete as having that kind of courage."
The line to attend Sunday's rally stretched all the way out to the highway. According to staffers, this is Buttigieg's fourth event in Iowa this month with a turnout of over 1,000 people.
Ankeny resident Keith Bryan told WHO-TV 13 the support reflects an energized population in the state and Buttigieg's popularity in the polls. He believes Costner's endorsement will only help boost Buttigieg's support.
"I really do think it holds some weight that he came out and spoke for Pete today," Bryan said. "Kevin Costner is salt of the earth person and does have the Iowa connection. He's more of your average American and isn't like the Hollywood elite."
Des Moines voter Mary Riche tells WHO-TV 13 Buttigieg has inherent presidential composure.
"He has an ability to remain composed when people are questioning him," she said. "He is consistent, composed, articulate, he is able to answer questions and talks about policies that align with core values that intersect with mine."
Riche was also impressed by Costner's introduction for Buttigieg. "Kevin Costner's speech, his words were beautiful and heartfelt. I was very impressed," she said. "The introduction Kevin gave him was a buildup and I do believe Mayor Pete performed in a way that confirmed, yes this is the guy."
Buttigieg joked about his "front runner status," and referenced recent attention from President Donald Trump.
"Gone from nobody being able to say my name to none other than the President of the United States helping people figure out how to pronounce it," Buttigieg said.
Buttigieg will continue to campaign throughout the state on Monday and will return after Christmas.
(Photo: WHO-TV 13)